Oldham; A Lot to Shout About

In our events calendar, which seems to get busier year on year, one of the biggest boldest red circles we draw is the one around the Oldham Business Awards. Since their inception, the OBAs have been a stunning testament to our home-town’s entrepreneurial spirit. The region’s MPs, Councillors, business leaders, generous benefactors, and most importantly, the hard-working people that make Oldham tick – come together for a celebration of exceptional achievement, hosted this year by television’s John Thomson, fresh from filming the new series of Cold Feet.

#oba16 Congratulations to all the finalists & winners tonight. Thanks to the good people & businesses of Oldham for making me so welcome😊👍🏻

As long-time sponsors of the event, we never miss an opportunity to see what the thriving business community of Oldham has been up to in the last 12 months. A diverse range of successful enterprises were celebrated this year, from our close neighbours Arundel Bakery, to our favourite curry house, Cafe Lahore.

With exceptional entertainment provided by a pop-up casino, and a carnival style dance from the children of Mahdlo, the night was immaculately presented. Footage of a drone flying over Oldham, with company logos popping out of their premises (set to the Game of Thrones theme, which felt unsettlingly appropriate), being a particular highlight. Special mentions are in order to several people:

– Firstly to Steve Kilroy, who has been a key figure in the organisation of the OBAs since day one. Steve gave a moving speech in which he announced he was stepping down from his position as Chair of the Steering Group – thanks for everything Steve!
– To Martyn Torr, who continues to prove that he finds retirement far too boring.
– To Steve Lowe on his very well deserved Special Recognition Award.
– Finally, to winner of our sponsored award, Young Entrepreneur of the Year Daniel Arundel, of Arundel Bakery. Great stuff!